Our research shows that Nexus Auto Transport stands out as the top-rated car shipping provider in South Carolina, earning a 4.8 out of 5 stars for affordability, reliability, and range of services. Car shipping costs in South Carolina can vary depending on distance, vehicle type, and time of year, but most drivers can expect to pay somewhere between $800 - $1,251.
Why Trust FreightWaves Checkpoint?
We do the deep digging so you don't have to. At FreightWaves Checkpoint, our mission is to make the car shipping process clearer, smarter, and easier to navigate.
We've rated 2,400 companies using a detailed methodology that considers pricing, customer experience, service offerings, and availability. Then we cross-reference that with real reviews to understand what actually happens when customers book.
All our findings go through a thorough editorial review to ensure every detail we share is correct, current, and helpful to you.
The Best Car Shipping Companies in South Carolina
With a wider reach and stronger infrastructure, national car shipping companies often stand out for value and reliability. These are the trusted choices we recommend for South Carolina.
Nexus Auto Transport
http://www.nexusautotransport.com
Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Live shipment tracking
- Fast, no-hassle quotes
- Door-to-door pickup
- Competitive discounts
Cons
- No international shipping
- Pay more with debit/credit card
Services Offered
- Door-to-door deliveries
- Open and enclosed trailers
- Hawaii/Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.
Sherpa's Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Insured shipping
Montway Auto Transport
https://www.montway.com
After 13 years in business and over four hundred thousand cars shipped, Montway Auto Transport knows a thing or two about how to ship cars long distance.
Montway is the preferred choice for some of the largest corporate relocation companies in the world as well as the exclusive transport partner for Auto Trader Classics.
Their competitive pricing and easy booking process earn them the number one spot in auto transport.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Additional insurance provided on every shipment
- No deposit required, pay at delivery
- Expedited delivery available
- Guaranteed delivery available
- Ship up to 100lbs in the car for free
- Special discounts for return customers and military
- Ships classic cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs and trailers
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Navi Auto Transport
https://naviautotransport.com
Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company's transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price match policy
- Quick turnaround
- Discounts
- White-glove transport
- 24/7 tracking
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- No guaranteed pickup date
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
SGT Auto Transport
http://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn't ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open and enclosed transport
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
Local Auto Transport Options in South Carolina
While we've vetted and rated these local auto transport companies in South Carolina, they may have limited availability or service offerings compared to our top picks listed above.
Columbia Auto Shipping Group
Columbia Auto Shipping Group (DOT: 2239008) is a highly-rated car shipping company with a stellar Google rating of 5.0 and an A+ rating from the BBB. They provide a wide range of services including classic car shipping, motorcycle shipping, and transport for electric vehicles. Additionally, they offer expedited delivery and shipment tracking to ensure timely and secure shipping.
One of the standout features of Columbia Auto Shipping Group is their ability to transport inoperable cars, making them a versatile choice for various shipping needs. However, a notable downside is that they do not provide terminal-to-terminal delivery, which might be inconvenient for some customers. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Hmh Logistics Llc
Hmh Logistics Llc (DOT: 3186769) offers a variety of car shipping services with a Google rating of 4.0. The company provides specialized transport for classic cars, motorcycles, RVs, heavy equipment, and even inoperable vehicles. They stand out with offerings like damage-free guarantees, open and enclosed transport options, and expedited delivery services.
However, it’s worth noting that they do not provide fully insured shipping or terminal-to-terminal delivery, which may be less convenient for some customers. Additionally, while Hmh Logistics does not yet have ratings on Yelp or BBB, their versatile service offerings make them a robust option for various shipping needs.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Andrew Auto Transport
Andrew Auto Transport (DOT: 2241947) offers a range of specialized car shipping services, including options for boats, motorcycles, trailers, RVs, and heavy equipment, as well as inoperable cars. The company provides both open and enclosed transport, and also supports international shipping. Customers can make payments conveniently using cash, credit card, or money order.
Despite these offerings, the company does not guarantee damage-free delivery or expedited services, which could be a downside for some customers. Additionally, Andrew Auto Transport has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and BBB, but currently has a Google rating of 1.0.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Deposit Required
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Trailer Shipping
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Xpress Auto Transport
Xpress Auto Transport (DOT: 3878126) is a versatile car shipping company offering a wide range of transport services, including international shipping, motorcycle shipping, and enclosed transport for added vehicle protection. They also cater to unique needs such as transporting boats, trailers, RVs, and heavy equipment, making them a one-stop solution for various transport requirements.
The company prioritizes customer convenience with services like expedited delivery and detailed inspection reports, and they are fully insured for your peace of mind. However, they do not provide a damage-free guarantee or inoperable car transport, which may be a downside for some customers.
Xpress Auto Transport accepts payments by credit card but does not offer services such as terminal-to-terminal delivery or AAA and senior discounts. The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
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Find the Best Car Shipping Option for You
Understanding Car Shipping Costs in South Carolina
Here are some sample prices when shipping a car in or out of South Carolina:
| Shipping Route | Open Trailer | Enclosed Trailer |
|---|---|---|
| From South Carolina to Michigan | 1286 | 1672 |
| From South Carolina to Illinois | 1295 | 1684 |
| From South Carolina to Texas | 1496 | 1945 |
| From South Carolina to Arizona | 1934 | 2514 |
| From South Carolina to Ohio | 1059 | 1377 |
| From North Carolina to South Carolina | 630 | 819 |
| From Florida to South Carolina | 977 | 1270 |
| From California to South Carolina | 2234 | 2904 |
| From Georgia to South Carolina | 598 | 777 |
| From New York to South Carolina | 1160 | 1508 |
Popular Moving Routes from South Carolina
- South Carolina to Alabama
- South Carolina to Arizona
- South Carolina to Arkansas
- South Carolina to California
- South Carolina to Colorado
- South Carolina to Connecticut
- South Carolina to Delaware
- South Carolina to Florida
- South Carolina to Georgia
- South Carolina to Idaho
- South Carolina to Illinois
- South Carolina to Indiana
- South Carolina to Iowa
- South Carolina to Kansas
- South Carolina to Kentucky
- South Carolina to Louisiana
- South Carolina to Maine
- South Carolina to Maryland
- South Carolina to Massachusetts
- South Carolina to Michigan
- South Carolina to Minnesota
- South Carolina to Mississippi
- South Carolina to Missouri
- South Carolina to Montana
- South Carolina to Nebraska
- South Carolina to Nevada
- South Carolina to New Hampshire
- South Carolina to New Jersey
- South Carolina to New Mexico
- South Carolina to New York
- South Carolina to North Carolina
- South Carolina to North Dakota
- South Carolina to Ohio
- South Carolina to Oklahoma
- South Carolina to Oregon
- South Carolina to Pennsylvania
- South Carolina to Rhode Island
- South Carolina to South Dakota
- South Carolina to Tennessee
- South Carolina to Texas
- South Carolina to Utah
- South Carolina to Vermont
- South Carolina to Virginia
- South Carolina to Washington
- South Carolina to West Virginia
- South Carolina to Wisconsin
- South Carolina to Wyoming
Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs
These are the factors that have the biggest impact on the cost of shipping a car out of South Carolina:
- Distance and Location: Distance significantly impacts car shipping costs, with longer distances incurring higher fees. Location affects rates based on demand and accessibility, rural areas generally costing more due to fewer available carriers.
- Vehicle Type and Condition: Shipping costs from South Carolina can rise for oversized vehicles, classic cars, or any that need special care. Non-running cars may also be more expensive due to the equipment needed to move them.
- Transport Type: Open car shipping is more affordable and uses an open trailer, leaving your car exposed to South Carolina's weather and roads. Enclosed car shipping is about 30% more expensive but shields your car in a covered trailer, ideal for high-end or classic cars. Due to the lower cost, around 90% of people opt for open transport.
- Seasonality: Hot and humid summers coupled with frequent hurricanes can increase shipping costs due to higher demand and potential delays. Cool winters with rare snowfall generally result in stable, lower shipping expenses.
- Additional Services Additional services like door-to-door delivery and expedited shipping raise the cost of shipping a car out of South Carolina. These services offer convenience and speed, often resulting in higher prices compared to standard options.
The cost to ship your vehicle from South Carolina depends on several key details. To find the right match for your needs and budget, use the form below to get quotes from South Carolina car shipping companies and compare what each one offers.
How To Cut Car Shipping Costs
Car shipping across long distances can quickly add up. If you're looking to save on vehicle transport from South Carolina, keep these strategies in mind:
- Shop around. Don't settle for the first car shipping company you find. Many companies offer instant online estimates, making it simple to get quotes from several places. Compare both the prices and services to get a fair comparison. A lower price might mean fewer services included.
- Ask about discounts. Car shipping companies often offer discounts for military members, students, senior citizens, and new or returning customers. When choosing a car shipper, look for deals or promotions to help lower your costs.
- Check for hidden fees. Car shipping companies may not tell you about extra charges until after you accept their quote. It's crucial to ask about any potential costs ahead of time. Common fees include gas, tolls, and terminal handling. Before signing, find out all the charges and get them in writing to avoid surprises on your final bill.
- Book in advance. Booking car shipping last minute will cost you more, especially if you need it fast. Once you pick a company, book early to save money.
- Ship during the off season. Shipping your car costs more in spring and early summer due to higher demand and fewer available slots. The same applies to major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. For the best prices and more scheduling choices, try to ship your car during less busy times.
- Opt for open transport. Choosing open shipping instead of enclosed shipping can reduce your auto transport costs by up to 50%. While enclosed carriers offer more protection, they are also much more expensive. Open carriers might expose your vehicle to the elements and road hazards, but they are usually safe and certainly more affordable.
- Pick terminal-to-terminal shipping over door-to-door service. Having someone pick up and deliver your car is convenient but usually costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping. If you can drive to the terminals, this option will save you money.
What You Need To Know Before Booking
To ensure your experience is a relatively seamless one, there are some key things you should understand about car shipping companies in South Carolina:
- Final costs may be higher than your initial quote. Some car shippers provide fixed rates, so your quote stays the same on delivery day. However, this isn't true for all companies. Unforeseen events or last-minute route changes can affect your final bill.
- Delivery dates aren't guaranteed. Many car shipping companies provide a guaranteed delivery option and will strive to meet the promised date. Without this option, the company's delivery timeline is an estimate, not a certainty. It's crucial to know that factors like bad weather and heavy traffic can cause unexpected delays, even with guaranteed deliveries, and are beyond the shipper's control.
- It's important to review insurance coverage. You need to know what a car shipping company's insurance covers and what it doesn't in case your car gets damaged during transit. Compare this information with your current auto insurance policy, which might already cover your car while it's being transported.
- Don't just sign off on your car delivery. Make sure to carefully review your bill of lading when you receive it and before you sign it at delivery. It may look like a simple receipt, but it is crucial. This document details the services provided and confirms that your car arrived in the same condition it left. Don't just sign without checking; ensure all services are listed and any vehicle damage is recorded. If not, you won't have proof to support a claim later.
How We Chose the Best South Carolina Auto Transport Companies
We rank the top car shippers in South Carolina by analyzing five important factors: licensing status, customer feedback, range of services, pricing transparency, and online reputation.
- Licensing ensures companies meet South Carolina and federal regulations, offering peace of mind.
- Customer satisfaction is gauged through reviews and feedback, highlighting reliability and service quality.
- The variety of services offered caters to different shipping needs, from classic cars to heavy equipment.
- Factoring in pricing ensures the company offers competitive and transparent pricing tailored to the unique demands of shipping a car through South Carolina.
- Lastly, a strong online reputation, through platforms like BBB and social media, reflects a company's commitment to excellence and transparency.
Local Car Shippers In South Carolina
Looking for a local company to work with? Check out these resources:
Car Shipping Company Reviews
Learn more about the car shipping companies we have reviewed below:
- Amerifreight Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship A Car Direct Review
FAQs About South Carolina Car Shipping
Should I drive my car or use a South Carolina car shipping company?
Shipping a car is a practical alternative to driving long distances through South Carolina. It saves time and effort while helping you avoid the state's extensive roads and varying seasonal weather. This is especially useful given South Carolina's diverse auto market.
How can I ensure the best car shipping experience?
It's important to do thorough research to avoid scams and choose companies familiar with South Carolina's logistics. Make sure the insurance coverage meets local standards and follow vehicle preparation tips too.
How do I choose the right car shipping method in South Carolina?
Think about your vehicle type, budget, and urgency. Enclosed shipping gives better protection against South Carolina's weather, but open shipping is cheaper.
What should I know about insurance coverage?
Learn whether the car shipping company offers basic insurance coverage and if additional coverage is available. Know the value limits of the insurance and understand any extra costs involved.
How can I prepare my car for a cross-country shipment out of South Carolina?
Get your car ready for cross-country transport by giving it a good wash and cleaning. Take photos of the car from all angles to document its condition, looking for any existing dents or scratches. Secure or remove loose items inside the car to prevent damage. In South Carolina, ensure the car's registration and insurance are up to date before shipping.
What are the signs of a reputable car shipping company in South Carolina?
Seek out positive reviews, check for proper licensing, and ensure the pricing is transparent. A company experienced with South Carolina's logistics and weather challenges is best.
